Thursday, January 28, 2010

11:57 AM

Sen. Mary Lazich, R-New Berlin, argued that the bill would be costly for employers and could increase premiums for health insurance plans.

Sen. Dave Hansen, D-Green Bay, said he has been pushing for the legislation since 2001. He said it is time to treat mental illness like any other illness.

"The stigma exists and I think that stigma still being there is killing people," he said.

Sen. Alberta Darling, R-River Hills, was the lone Republican vote in favor of the bill. Sen. Jeff Plale, D-South Milwaukee, was absent at roll call but later returned to the floor cast his vote in favor of the bill.